In a nutshell
This study investigated if vitamin D supplementation (VitD-S) affects coronary artery disease (CAD) outcomes.
They found that VitD-S may improve some cardiac outcomes in patients with CAD.
Some background
Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a common condition worldwide. CAD is caused by blockages in the coronary arteries. These arteries supply blood to the heart muscle. CAD leads to inflammation and reduced blood flow. This can lead to major adverse cardiac events (MACE) such as heart attack or stroke. There are several risk factors for CAD. They include high blood pressure and diabetes. Some studies suggest vitamin D (VitD) deficiency also increases the risk of CAD.
Low VitD levels have been associated with the occurrence of CAD. Some studies suggest VitD supplementation (VitD-S) could reduce the risk of MACE in patients with CAD. Other studies showed no effect. It is unclear if VitD-S improves cardiac outcomes in patients with CAD.
Methods & findings
This study analyzed 4 clinical trials. This included 307 patients with CAD. VitD-S or placebo (inactive tablet) was administered. The duration of studies varied between 8 weeks and 6 months. Cardiac outcomes varied across the studies. C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were the main CO. This indicates the level of inflammation in the blood. Parathyroid hormone (PTH; a hormone in relation with vitamin D and calcium) levels and blood pressure (BP) were other outcomes evaluated.
There was no effect of VitD-S on CRP levels. However diastolic BP (BP between heartbeats) was significantly lower in VitD-treated patients. PTH levels were also lower in VitD-treated patients.
The bottom line
The authors concluded that VitD-S may improve some cardiac outcomes such as diastolic BP in patients with CAD.
The fine print
The number of patients in the studies was low. Most of the studies had a short-term VitD treatment. Some important information was not available. This includes smoking status. More studies are needed.
What’s next?
If you have any concerns regarding CAD and vitamin D supplementation, please discuss this with your doctor.
Published By :
Scientific reports
Date :
Jul 31, 2020
